Death Toll from Cyclone Chido Rises to 94 in Mozambique Amid Ongoing Recovery

Mozambique’s death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido has risen to 94 as cleanup efforts continue. The cyclone also devastated Mayotte and moved into Malawi, causing further casualties. This storm highlighted the compounded issues of climate change and political unrest within the region, necessitating urgent response measures and recovery efforts.

Mozambique has increased its death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido to 94 following a week of cleanup operations in the aftermath of the storm. The cyclone, which reached category four strength, caused extensive destruction in the region, particularly in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, where wind gusts peaked at approximately 160 miles per hour, delivering over 9 inches of rain in just one day. Approximately 500,000 of the estimated 620,000 individuals affected are situated in this province, which has been severely impacted. The disaster has unfolded against a backdrop of political unrest in the country, as it grapples with internal tensions stemming from contentious elections.

The cyclone also wreaked havoc in the French territory of Mayotte before striking the African mainland, destroying around 110,000 homes across Mozambique. As of now, the interior ministry of Mayotte has confirmed 35 fatalities and 2,500 injuries, but this figure is likely to rise due to the presence of undocumented migrants residing in the affected areas.

Following the storm’s passage, the cyclone further traveled to Malawi, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals, with nearly 30 others injured. This latest weather event has underscored the troubling trend of climate change, which, according to experts, has intensified the nature and impact of such storms across the region, highlighting the broader challenges nations face in mitigation efforts.

Tropical Cyclone Chido emerged in the west Indian Ocean and was classified as a category four storm prior to making landfall in Mozambique. Known for its catastrophic impact, the cyclone gathered strength during its passage and left a significant toll not only in Mozambique but also in the neighboring regions, including Mayotte and Malawi. Its effects have been exacerbated by existing political tensions in Mozambique, underscoring the intersection of natural disasters, climate change, and local governance challenges. Authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage while also confronting the realities of displaced populations and national mourning in the wake of such devastation.

In summary, the revision of Mozambique’s death toll to 94 from Tropical Cyclone Chido reflects the storm’s devastating impact, which continues to unfold as recovery efforts progress. The cyclone has highlighted significant challenges faced by the region, particularly in the context of climate vulnerability and political unrest. As authorities navigate the aftermath, the ripple effects of the disaster extend across national borders, affecting neighboring countries and territories and prompting concerns for further casualties yet to be confirmed.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au